Kidney Disease in the U.S 2025
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains one of the most widespread and underdiagnosed health conditions in the United States. Affecting over 35 million adults, the disease often progresses silently—nearly 90% of those with CKD are unaware they have it. Elderly adults and individuals with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure are at significantly higher risk, while racial and ethnic disparities continue to drive unequal outcomes. Non-Hispanic Black Americans, for instance, are 4 times more likely to develop end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) than their White counterparts. At the same time, more than 90,000 Americans are currently on the kidney transplant waiting list, signaling the enormous gap between organ supply and demand.
While the scale of CKD poses a massive public health burden, the real challenge lies in early detection, effective prevention, and equitable access to care. Undiagnosed patients are more likely to progress to ESKD, which not only requires dialysis or transplant, but also carries extremely high mortality and economic costs. Medicare alone spends over $77 billion annually on CKD care, with dialysis patients showing the highest death rates. The impact is even more severe in rural regions and underserved communities, where access to nephrologists, dialysis centers, and transplant programs is limited. To address this crisis, the U.S. must prioritize early screening, chronic disease management, public education, and infrastructure expansion in vulnerable regions.
Alarming Facts About Kidney Disease in the U.S. – 2025
| Fact Category | Key Insight |
|---|---|
| The Silent Epidemic | 9 in 10 adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) do not know they have it, making it one of the most underdiagnosed health threats in the U.S. |
| Massive Scale | More than 1 in 7 U.S. adults—about 35.5 million people or 14%—are estimated to have CKD. |
| Healthcare Burden | $77 billion was spent by Medicare in 2021 for people aged 66+ with CKD (excluding ESKD), totaling 24.1% of spending in this group. |
| Transplant Waiting Crisis | As of November 2024, 90,323 people were on the kidney transplant waiting list in the U.S. |
| Mortality Impact | Kidney disease ranks as the 8th leading cause of death, with a death rate of 16.5 per 100,000 people. |
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most critical yet underrecognized health issues in the United States today. With 90% of affected adults unaware of their condition, early intervention remains a major challenge. The scale of the problem is staggering: over 35 million Americans, or 14% of the adult population, are estimated to have CKD. This silent progression contributes to increased rates of hospitalization, complications, and ultimately premature death, particularly among those who don’t receive timely diagnosis or care.
In terms of systemic impact, the disease exerts significant financial pressure on the U.S. healthcare system. Medicare spending alone for CKD patients (excluding end-stage kidney disease) was nearly $77 billion in 2021. At the same time, over 90,000 people remain on the kidney transplant waiting list, a number that continues to grow amid limited organ availability. With kidney disease ranked as the 8th leading cause of death, urgent nationwide strategies are needed to improve screening, preventive care, and access to transplant services.
Kidney Disease Statistics in the U.S. 2025
Chronic Kidney Disease Prevalence in the U.S. – 2025
| Demographic Category | Percentage with CKD | Population Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Overall U.S. Adults | 14% | 35.5 million people |
| Women | 14% | Higher than men |
| Men | 12% | Lower than women |
| Ages 65+ | 34% | Highest risk group |
| Ages 45–64 | 12% | Moderate risk |
| Ages 18–44 | 6% | Lowest risk |
Source: CDC Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States, 2023
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects a significant 14% of all U.S. adults, translating to over 35.5 million people nationwide. The prevalence remains consistent between men and women, although women show slightly higher diagnosis rates. CKD is largely an age-associated condition, as reflected in the sharp increase among older adults. Notably, 34% of individuals aged 65 and above are affected, making them the highest-risk age group. Adults in the 45–64 age group face moderate risk at 12%, while those aged 18–44 have the lowest rate of 6%, although early detection remains critical.
The age-wise gradient in CKD prevalence highlights the importance of preventive healthcare and routine screenings, especially for older adults. While the condition is less prevalent in younger individuals, the long-term impact of undiagnosed kidney damage can become life-threatening if not addressed. Public health efforts must emphasize awareness campaigns and screenings for high-risk groups, particularly seniors and adults with comorbidities like diabetes and hypertension, which often coexist with CKD.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Kidney Disease in the U.S. – 2025
| Race/Ethnicity | CKD Prevalence | ESKD Risk Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Hispanic Black | 20% | 4x more likely than White |
| Hispanic | 14% | 2x more likely than White |
| Non-Hispanic Asian | 14% | 1.6x more likely than White |
| Non-Hispanic White | 12% | Baseline comparison |
| Native American | Not specified | 2x more likely than White |
Kidney disease shows stark racial and ethnic disparities, with Non-Hispanic Black Americans experiencing a 20% prevalence of CKD—the highest among all groups. More concerning is their 4 times higher risk of progressing to End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) compared to Non-Hispanic Whites, reflecting deep-rooted health inequities. Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Asian adults both show 14% CKD prevalence, but also face significantly higher risks of kidney failure (2x and 1.6x, respectively). Native Americans, though not specified in prevalence, also have double the risk of ESKD.
These disparities can be attributed to a combination of genetic susceptibility, socioeconomic barriers, and unequal access to healthcare services such as nephrology, transplant programs, and early screening. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension, more prevalent in these populations, further elevate CKD risk. Reducing this racial burden demands targeted outreach programs, culturally sensitive health education, and expanded screening and treatment access in underserved communities. Addressing systemic healthcare inequities is essential to preventing kidney disease progression in minority populations.
End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) in the U.S. – 2025
| ESKD Statistics | Numbers | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Total ESKD Population | 808,000+ people | 2 in 1,000 Americans |
| On Dialysis | 549,440 people | 68% of ESKD patients |
| With Transplant | 258,560 people | 32% of ESKD patients |
| Home Dialysis | 77,490 people | 14.1% of dialysis patients |
| Male vs Female Risk | 1.6x higher in males | 60% male, 40% female |
Source: United States Renal Data System 2023 Annual Data Report
End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) affects over 808,000 Americans, representing the most critical phase of kidney failure. Among these, approximately 68% rely on dialysis, while 32% live with a kidney transplant. The data underscores that the vast majority of ESKD patients are dependent on frequent and life-altering dialysis procedures. Notably, home dialysis is gaining traction, representing 14.1% of dialysis cases—indicating a shift toward more patient-centric care models.
A significant gender disparity persists in ESKD burden. Males are 1.6 times more likely to develop end-stage disease than females, making up 60% of all cases. These gendered outcomes reflect potential biological differences, lifestyle factors, and gaps in early screening. The growing number of ESKD cases calls for urgent policy and healthcare interventions to expand transplant access, reduce dialysis dependency, and increase public awareness around preventing kidney disease progression.
Kidney Transplant Statistics in the U.S. – 2025
| Transplant Metrics | 2023–2024 Data | Success Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Transplants Completed (2023) | 27,332 | Highest ever recorded |
| Waiting List (Nov 2024) | 90,323 people | Growing annually |
| 5-Year Transplant Rate | 46.3% | For those waitlisted in 2016 |
| Children (≤17) Success | 85.4% | Higher than adults |
| Adult Success Rate | 28.5%–55.3% | Varies by age bracket |
Source: U.S. Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network & NIDDK
The U.S. reached a record-breaking 27,332 kidney transplants in 2023, yet this achievement pales in comparison to the massive waiting list of over 90,000 patients as of November 2024. This stark gap between supply and demand emphasizes the critical need for improved organ donation systems, increased public participation, and expanded eligibility for living donors. Unfortunately, only about 46.3% of people who joined the transplant waiting list in 2016 received a transplant within five years.
Transplant success rates vary widely. Pediatric transplant recipients have the highest outcomes, with an 85.4% success rate, while adult rates range from 28.5% to 55.3% depending on age. Younger recipients typically fare better post-surgery, underlining the importance of timely intervention. While transplantation remains the most effective treatment for ESKD, overcoming long wait times and demographic disparities is essential for improving survival and quality of life.
Economic Impact of Kidney Disease in the U.S. – 2025
| Economic Metrics | 2021 Data | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare CKD Spending | $77 billion | 24.1% of Medicare spending (ages 66+) |
| ESKD Medicare Spending | $52.3 billion | Separate from CKD costs |
| Per-Person CKD Cost | $28,162 | Double the cost of non-CKD patients |
| Per-Person Non-CKD Cost | $13,604 | Baseline comparison |
Source: United States Renal Data System 2023 Annual Data Report
Chronic and end-stage kidney disease impose a massive financial burden on the U.S. healthcare system. In 2021 alone, Medicare spent $77 billion on beneficiaries aged 66 or older with CKD, accounting for 24.1% of all Medicare spending in that age group. Meanwhile, an additional $52.3 billion was spent specifically on ESKD, excluding earlier stages. These figures underscore kidney disease as one of the most expensive chronic illnesses in the country.
On an individual level, the disparity in healthcare costs is striking. Patients with CKD incur an average annual expense of $28,162, which is more than double the $13,604 spent on non-CKD patients. The high cost stems from frequent medical visits, dialysis treatments, hospitalizations, and complications. These trends reinforce the importance of early detection, prevention strategies, and lifestyle interventions to reduce the financial and clinical burden of kidney disease nationwide.
Mortality Rates & Outcomes in the U.S. – 2025
| Mortality Statistics | Rate per 1,000 person-years | Population Group |
|---|---|---|
| CKD Medicare Beneficiaries (66+) | 101.8 | 2x higher than non-CKD |
| Non-CKD Medicare Beneficiaries | 46.3 | Baseline comparison |
| ESKD Patients (2021) | 153.7 | Increased from pre-pandemic |
| Dialysis Patients | 187.7 | Highest mortality rate |
| Transplant Recipients | 74.3 | Lowest mortality rate |
Source: United States Renal Data System 2023 Annual Data Report
Kidney disease remains one of the most lethal chronic conditions in the United States. Among Medicare beneficiaries aged 66+, those with CKD experience a mortality rate of 101.8 per 1,000 person-years, more than double that of their non-CKD counterparts (46.3). The risks become even more pronounced for those with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD)—mortality climbs to 153.7, highlighting the life-threatening nature of late-stage kidney damage.
Patients undergoing dialysis face the gravest outcomes, with a staggering mortality rate of 187.7 per 1,000 person-years—the highest among all kidney disease subgroups. In contrast, transplant recipients fare significantly better, with a much lower mortality rate of 74.3. These statistics not only stress the importance of early detection and treatment but also reveal the need for expanding transplant access as a life-saving alternative.
Risk Factors and Associated Conditions in the U.S. – 2025
| Risk Factor | CKD Risk | Population Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Diabetes | 1 in 3 people | 38.5% prevalence (2017–2020) |
| High Blood Pressure | 1 in 5 people | Major risk factor |
| Heart Disease | Increased risk | Linked conditions |
| Family History | Increased risk | Genetic predisposition |
| Age 65+ | 34% prevalence | Highest risk group |
Source: NIDDK & CDC Statistics
Chronic kidney disease often stems from modifiable medical conditions, with diabetes and high blood pressure being the most prevalent contributors. An estimated 1 in 3 people with diabetes and 1 in 5 with hypertension are at increased risk of developing CKD, indicating how closely kidney health is tied to these underlying conditions. Together, they drive the majority of new CKD cases, making blood sugar and blood pressure control vital components of kidney disease prevention.
Other notable risk factors include heart disease, family history, and older age. Those aged 65 and above represent the highest risk group, with a CKD prevalence of 34%—underscoring the urgency for regular screenings in elderly populations. While some of these factors are non-modifiable, improved education, lifestyle management, and targeted medical care could dramatically reduce CKD onset and progression across high-risk groups.
Diagnosed vs. Undiagnosed Kidney Disease in the U.S. – 2025
| Awareness Level | Percentage | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Unaware of CKD | 90% | 31.95 million people |
| Aware of CKD | 10% | 3.55 million people |
| Severe CKD Unaware | 33% | 1 in 3 with stage 4 CKD |
| Diagnosed Kidney Disease | 2.4% | 6.0 million adults |
Source: CDC & National Health Interview Survey 2018
One of the most urgent public health issues surrounding kidney disease is the alarming rate of underdiagnosis. A staggering 90% of individuals with CKD are unaware they have it—translating to nearly 32 million undiagnosed Americans. Even among those with severe kidney impairment (stage 4), approximately 1 in 3 are unaware of their condition. This invisibility results in delayed intervention, increasing the risk of progression to ESKD and premature death.
Currently, only 2.4% of U.S. adults have a diagnosed case of kidney disease, a figure that grossly underrepresents the true scale of the problem. The data reveals a systemic gap in screening and awareness, particularly among at-risk populations. Widespread implementation of early diagnostic tools, better public education, and physician-led initiatives could help bridge this awareness gap and dramatically improve outcomes for millions.
Geographic & State-Level Variations in the U.S. – 2025
| Geographic Factor | Impact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Mortality Rates | Varies by state | Southern states typically higher |
| Access to Specialists | Urban vs. Rural disparity | Limited rural nephrology access |
| Dialysis Center Distribution | Concentrated in urban areas | Rural patients travel longer distances |
| Transplant Center Access | Major metropolitan areas | Geographic barriers exist |
Source: CDC Stats of the States – Kidney Disease Mortality
Geographic disparities play a significant role in kidney disease outcomes across the United States. Mortality rates from kidney disease vary widely by state, with the Southern states consistently reporting the highest death rates. Factors such as socioeconomic inequality, healthcare infrastructure, and underlying chronic disease prevalence contribute to these disparities. States in the South also tend to have higher rates of diabetes and hypertension, compounding the burden of kidney-related complications.
Access to care is another critical factor. Rural areas often lack sufficient nephrology specialists, forcing patients to travel long distances for routine evaluations and treatment. Dialysis and transplant centers are mostly concentrated in urban settings, making geographic access a barrier for those in remote regions. These structural challenges highlight the need for policy reforms, telehealth expansion, and investment in rural kidney care infrastructure to reduce avoidable disparities in treatment access and outcomes.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
